Kennedy Wilson Backs SEI’s Impact Programme
5th September 2022
Social Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI) recently announced the beginning of a three-year partnership with real estate investment company Kennedy Wilson. As Major Programme Sponsor, in conjunction with other philanthropic donors, their funding will support the Impact Programme.
Each year this nine-month accelerator will support five organisations solving social problems across Ireland. The programme provides training and support to the founders and provides €20,000 each in unrestricted funding to help the organisations grow.
Commenting, Kennedy Wilson’s Global Sustainability Officer, Peter Collins said, “Our involvement with Social Entrepreneurs Ireland is an ideal fit for Kennedy Wilson’s social platform, which focuses on supporting causes and organizations that produce measurable results and create positive lasting impacts in the communities where we operate. We are really excited to be working with the SEI team and to take a hands-on approach to launching these innovative and entrepreneurial organisations through the Impact Programme.”
The SEI Impact Programme identifies high-potential social entrepreneurs and supports them through funding and mentoring, as well as providing access to a network of support. Impact Awardees receive training in areas such as fundraising, governance, leadership, and storytelling.
The 2022 programme attracted more than 100 applications from all corners of Ireland, with applicants going through a rigorous interview process. The five chosen Awardees provide innovative solutions to solve various social issues including gaps in the education system, plastic pollution, and opening up conversations about crime, mental health, and addiction.
This year, the five Impact Awardees (pictured) are:
DcodeDyslexia – Mary Moran: An easy-to-use structured literacy reading programme for dyslexic students, their parents, and schools.
Hair Together – Eileen McHugh: A personal development programme, which uses the art of hairdressing and barbering to reach and engage with young people who have not yet reached their full potential through mainstream education.
Jiminy Eco Toys – Sharon Keilthy: A toy store shaking up the plastic-focused toy industry by retailing and distributing climate-neutral and minimal waste toys for children.
The B!G Idea – Kim Mackenzie-Doyle: A creative education initiative programme for 15-16 year-olds bridging the gap between industry and education by having students work on projects solving social issues.
The Two Norries – James Leonard & Timmy Long: A podcast which uses personal stories, humour, and sensitive down-to-earth advice themed around crime, mental health, addiction and social and health issues.
